When you think of a quarter, you probably imagine a coin worth just 25 cents. However, some Bicentennial Quarters—minted in 1976 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the United States—are anything but ordinary.
Due to rare minting errors, a handful of these quarters have become some of the most valuable coins in the world, worth millions of dollars.
In fact, a select few rare Bicentennial Quarters have been known to fetch prices in the tens of millions, with one coin even nearing the $90 million mark.
1. The 1976 Double Die Bicentennial Quarter: $90 Million
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter is one of the most iconic coins in U.S. history, but some varieties of this quarter are much more than just a piece of currency.
Among them, the 1976 Double Die Bicentennial Quarter stands out as one of the rarest and most valuable errors ever discovered.
Why is it worth $90 million?
The 1976 Double Die Bicentennial Quarter is incredibly rare because only a handful of these coins with the double die error were ever produced.
When one of these coins surfaced at auction, it shocked numismatists and collectors alike when it sold for an astounding $90 million. The coin’s value is further increased by its excellent condition, scarcity, and historical significance.
How to spot one?
To identify a double die error, closely inspect the coin for doubled text—most notably the inscriptions.
If the “LIBERTY” or “IN GOD WE TRUST” appear doubled, that’s a good indication you have a rare double die error. Pay special attention to the fine details of the coin, as these errors are often faint but visible when examined carefully.
2. The 1976 Misaligned Die Bicentennial Quarter: $60 Million
Another rare and valuable variant of the Bicentennial Quarter is the 1976 Misaligned Die Bicentennial Quarter, which can fetch up to $60 million.
A misaligned die error occurs when the die used to strike the coin is off-center, causing the design to be struck out of alignment. This results in coins where parts of the design are shifted or cut off from the edge of the coin.
Why is it worth $60 million?
Due to the rarity of the error, only a few misaligned die Bicentennial Quarters exist. These misalignments are usually noticed before the coin is released into circulation, and the mint often discards such mistakes.
When a misaligned die error is found in exceptional condition, its value can reach as high as $60 million.
How to spot one?
Look for shifted designs or off-center images. If the obverse or reverse designs appear misaligned or are cut off at the edge, you may have a misaligned die error.
3. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with Double Strike: $55 Million
The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a double strike is another highly valuable coin, often fetching upwards of $55 million. A double strike error occurs when the coin is struck more than once by the minting press, causing overlapping images on the coin.
This error is relatively rare and can be seen on coins where the designs overlap or show faint impressions from the second strike.
Why is it worth $55 million?
Double strike errors are highly sought after because they are not only rare but also visually stunning. The 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, with its distinctive double strike, stands out to collectors and numismatists alike.
How to spot one?
Look for overlapping designs on both sides of the coin. If the date, inscriptions, or images are doubled, or if you notice a faint second image on the coin, you could have a double strike error.
| Coin | Year | Error Type | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 Double Die Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Double die error | $90 million |
| 1976 Misaligned Die Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Misaligned die error | $60 million |
| 1976 Double Strike Bicentennial Quarter | 1976 | Double strike error | $55 million |
Also see:-Three Best $Ten-Million Priced Rare Bicentennial Quarter and 2 More Worth Over $100K
What is a double die error, and why is it so valuable?
A double die error occurs when a coin is struck twice by the die, resulting in doubled text or designs on the coin.
This error is valuable because it is extremely rare and makes the coin more desirable to collectors. A double die coin, like the 1976 Bicentennial Quarter, is highly sought after and can fetch millions of dollars.
How can I identify a double die error on a Bicentennial Quarter?
To identify a double die error, closely inspect the inscriptions and designs. Look for doubled letters in “LIBERTY”, “IN GOD WE TRUST”, or the date.
If the text appears blurry or duplicated, you may have a double die error. Magnification tools can help you spot these subtle differences.
What is a misaligned die error, and how can I spot it?
A misaligned die error happens when the die is not properly aligned with the planchet (metal disc), causing the design to be off-center.
To spot this error, look for coins where parts of the design are shifted or cut off from the edge. If the image is not centered, you may have a misaligned die error.
Why are double strike errors valuable?
A double strike error occurs when a coin is struck twice, causing overlapping designs. These errors are rare and visually striking, making them highly desirable to collectors. The more pronounced the double strike, the more valuable the coin can become.
A 1976 Bicentennial Quarter with a double strike error can be worth millions due to its rarity and the unique visual appeal.